MotoGP: Mugello circuit marks 50 years of Italian Grand Prix

The Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello, located about 30 kilometres north of Florence, will celebrate in 2026 the 50th anniversary of the Italian MotoGP Grand Prix. The milestone event is set to take place on 31 May, marking five decades of racing history at the Tuscan circuit.

The first race at Mugello dates back to 16 May 1976, when the premier class was still known as 500cc. Italian legend Giacomo Agostini secured pole position, while the race victory went to his Suzuki teammate Barry Sheene.

Over the years, the circuit has hosted a series of memorable races and champions. American riders Kenny Roberts and Freddie Spencer won in 1978 and 1986 respectively, while Kevin Schwantz triumphed in 1992. Australia’s Mick Doohandominated the mid-1990s with five consecutive victories between 1994 and 1997.

The late 1990s also saw the rise of Italian riders across different categories. Max Biaggi achieved success in the 250cc class, while Valentino Rossi took his first Mugello win in 1997 in the 125cc category. Rossi would go on to become the most successful rider at the circuit, with nine victories overall, including seven consecutive wins in the premier class between 2002 and 2008.

After Rossi’s last win, Italian fans had to wait until 2017 to hear the national anthem again at Mugello, when Andrea Dovizioso won for Ducati. Another home victory followed in 2019 with Danilo Petrucci.

In recent years, Ducati has dominated the Tuscan track. Francesco Bagnaia secured three consecutive wins from 2022 to 2024, while the most recent edition in 2025 was won by Marc Márquez.

The 2026 anniversary race is expected to highlight the continued prominence of Italian manufacturers, with Ducati and Aprilia among the main contenders in the current MotoGP season.

Practical information

• Event: Italian MotoGP Grand Prix (50th anniversary at Mugello)
• Date: Sunday, 31 May 2026
• Location: Mugello Circuit, Scarperia e San Piero (Florence province)
• Access: Tickets and details are typically available through the circuit’s official channels and MotoGP organisers.

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